29 May I keep getting calls from ‘Medicare’ but it’s a scam. How do I stop it?

Q. I keep receiving multiple calls from “Medicare” or representatives of Medicare about my benefits. I know it’s a scam but how do they know my name, Social Security number, date of birth and address. How do they have all that information and what do they want? This time, they were trying to confirm my primary care physician. I never have confirmed or denied any of this information nor do I give any personal information to them. I tell them you are a scammer or I just hang up. It’s up to 8-10 calls a day. I have tried to block the numbers but it’s a new number most every time from local exchanges to every state in the union. Usually it’s about pain or they tell me I have diabetes and arthritis! What are we supposed to do to stop this? Any remedies besides changing my phone number? Do they target me for any particular reason or is it just random?
— Annoyed

A. Lots to unpack here.

If they already say your name and other identifying information, it’s partly that you’re targeted in that they somehow got your information and they’re now calling to trick you into giving up more.

They could have gotten the info about you from any number of data hacks.

We know that it’s a major pain to constantly block numbers because the numbers keep changing, but keep doing it. If you’re not sure what your carrier offers, check their website or call customer service to find out.

Another option is to use a service like Nomorobo, which is free for landlines and is available for a fee for cell phones. When it detects a robocall, your phone only rings once and it redirects the call. Regular legit calls go through like usual.

Also, keep in mind that when you do answer one of these calls, even if you just say “you’re a scammer” and hang up, the caller then knows your line is live and there is a human on the other side. If your phone service advises that a call is probably a scam call, don’t answer. If it’s someone who is really trying to reach you, they can always leave a message.

One other thing. You said you know it’s a scam. It certainly sounds like it is. But to make sure, you should call Medicare to make sure they have not been legitimately trying to contact you. Just in case.

And as always, consider putting a freeze on your credit reports to make sure no one can take out a loan in your name. Again, just in case.

Email your questions to Ask@NJMoneyHelp.com.

This story was originally published in May 2025.

NJMoneyHelp.com presents certain general financial planning principles and advice, but should never be viewed as a substitute for obtaining advice from a personal professional advisor who understands your unique individual circumstances.